In the six and thirtieth year of the reign of Asa Baasha king of Israel came up against Judah, and built Ramah, to the intent that he might let none go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.
In the thirty-sixth year of King Asa's rule, Baasha the king of Israel attacked Judah and fortified the city of Ramah. His plan was to set up a blockade so that no one could travel in or out of King Asa's territory in Judah.
This verse describes how Israel's king created a military blockade against Judah to isolate and weaken King Asa's kingdom.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred around 895 BC during the divided kingdom period, when Israel (northern kingdom) and Judah (southern kingdom) were separate nations often in conflict. Ramah was strategically located on the main road between the two kingdoms, making it an ideal place for a blockade. King Asa had been ruling Judah for 36 years and had previously experienced God's blessing in earlier battles.
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